CQU starred in the 2002 Premier of Queensland's Export Awards presentation in Brisbane Wednesday night. For the second year in a row CQU won the Education Award -- one of the most hotly contested categories. The award, sponsored by Santos, included a check for $5000, a trophy and a certificate.

“Our congratulations to everyone for helping to build our reputation as a quality international education provider,” said Vice Chancellor and President Glenice Hancock. Professor Hancock particularly thanked the staff of the Faculties of Informatics & Communication and Business & Law and the International Office who provide and support the greatest number of programs to CQU international students. “These staff are constantly not only meeting the challenges but are also most open to scrutiny by students, other universities and the media,” explained Professor Hancock In an email to staff, Professor Hancock wrote: “By being acknowledged as a successful education exporter two years in a row, our reputation in higher education and regional development and as a major contributor to Queensland's economy has been greatly enhanced and all staff should feel justifiably proud.” International demand for higher education is expanding. CQU believes the ongoing development of the international education export community will directly contribute to the long-term economic growth of Queensland and its regional areas.

International programs also offer exceptional opportunities for our Australian students to establish networks with people in some of the markets important to the growth and strength of Australia.

Premier Beattie was on hand earlier this year when Central Queensland University officially opened its expanded Sydney International Campus to accommodate 3,000 international students.

“What was initially a Queensland university has grown to become ... one of the most successful universities in terms of recruiting international students. It’s also one of the largest employers in Central Queensland ... This demonstrates how regional communities and progressive universities like CQU can take leadership roles in the Smart State,” the Premier said. One in four jobs in regional Queensland is tied to export. 375,000 jobs in the state are also directly or indirectly export related, according to the office of State Development.